Carlsbad, CA – Five days after a tragic shooting in a Carlsbad apartment complex parking lot, police have officially identified the victim as April Moore, 50, a local resident. The harrowing event, which occurred late Friday evening, has left the community searching for answers as investigators continue working to understand the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
Moore was shot to death outside her home at the Ascend Apartment Homes near Carlsbad Village Drive and Rising Glen Way. Following the shooting, her SUV was stolen and later found in Orange County with the suspect, 31-year-old Andre Anthony Matijasevic behind the wheel. The dangerous confrontation ended hours later in a shootout with Newport police, resulting in Matijasevic’s death.
The Timeline of Events on the Night of the Shooting
According to the police report, the shooting occurred around 10 p.m. on Friday just outside Moore’s apartment. Responding to gunfire, neighbors described a terrifying experience with loud, rapid shots heard through the walls. Roommates Greg Santilli and Lisa Trapani were among the first to hear the gunfire and called 911 immediately.
“It was really scary,” said Santilli, who noted they feared their nearby car might be riddled with bullet holes. “I heard the shots immediately. They were pop, pop, pop, pop.”
Despite responders’ efforts, Moore could not be saved. Trapani expressed concern about the nature of the attack, stating, “I think it was personal and not random. Random, of course, is much more scary, because it could happen again.”
Police Investigation and Community Impact
The Carlsbad Police Department has confirmed that they are continuing to investigate and have not established any connection between Moore and the suspect Matijasevic. Authorities described the situation as an “isolated incident.” Meanwhile, Orange County Sheriff’s detectives are investigating the shootout that resulted in the suspect’s death. No law enforcement officers were injured during the exchange of gunfire.
The incident has cast a shadow of unease over the neighborhood. Ashley Cooper, a neighbor who often parks near the victim’s spot, emphasized the broader implications for community safety:
“Just being extra cautious, this could happen anywhere — at the grocery store, even where you live.”
How You Can Help
Authorities urge anyone with information about the case to come forward to assist the ongoing investigation. Witnesses or individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact Carlsbad police at 442-339-2197.
- Victim: April Moore, 50, Carlsbad resident
- Incident Location: Ascend Apartment Homes parking lot, Carlsbad
- Time: Around 10 p.m. on Friday night
- Suspect: Andre Anthony Matijasevic, 31, Rancho Santa Margarita
- Suspect’s demise: Killed in a Newport police shootout
- Ongoing Investigation: Carlsbad Police and Orange County Sheriff’s detectives
For further background and details, visit the original report on NBC San Diego.
What Do Neighbors Say About Safety Concerns?
The shooting has heightened awareness about personal safety among residents in Carlsbad and surrounding areas. Neighbors who once felt secure in their community now admit to taking extra precautions:
- Parking in well-lit areas
- Avoiding isolated places at night
- Staying alert and reporting suspicious activity
The unsettling incident serves as a sobering reminder that violence can occur unexpectedly, emphasizing the need for vigilance and community solidarity.
Share Your Thoughts and Stay Informed
What do you think about this incident? Have you ever felt concerned about safety in your neighborhood? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
